The Sympathizer

Main Characters and Their Development

• The Spy - the main character and narrator, half French, half Vietnamese. He works for the South Vietnamese government but is actually a double agent for the communists. His internal conflict and double life lead to deep moral and psychological dilemmas.
• The General - the protagonist's superior in the South Vietnamese army. After the fall of Saigon, he emigrates to the USA and attempts to organize a counter-revolution. The General symbolizes the old regime and its attempts to retain power.
• Bon - the protagonist's best friend, loyal to the South Vietnamese regime. His life is shattered by the war, and he suffers from the loss of family and friends. Bon represents a tragic figure whose loyalty and suffering underscore the brutality of war.
• Man - a communist comrade and the protagonist's contact. He symbolizes ideological devotion and revolutionary struggle. Man plays a key role in the protagonist's life, constantly reminding him of his duties to the communist movement.
• Lana - the protagonist's love interest, a singer and actress. She represents a cultural bridge between East and West and symbolizes personal and professional ambitions clashing with political realities.